My wine picks this week feature some seductively silky pinot noirs from Burgundy, as well as crisp chardonnays. The South African wines in these new reviews are tremendous bargains and such good quality, especially the shirazes and sauvignon blancs. I had a hard time choosing my "best value wines."

I've posted a new vintage chart to suggest when to drink wines from wine-producing regions around the world. Included is the most comprehensive Canadian vintage chart, including B.C., Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. I hope you find this helpful.

Just for fun, this week we're pairing wine and take-out from Indian and Asian to KFC and pizza. Tips below.

Do you have friends, family or colleagues who also love wine? You can suggest them to me for this newsletter. I'll send them a quick note to let them know what the newsletter is about.

This recipe for Seared Beef Sirloin with Arugula and Balsamic from Melanie Secciani of The Spice Lab would be perfect with a robust, mouth-watering Italian red, such as an Amarone or Brunello di Montalcino. Here's the recipe ... More »

Wines doesn't have to be only for special occasions and fancy meals. Why not try it with your favourite take-out? I love a crisp sauvignon blanc cutting through the cheese on my pizza or a robust syrah with a hamburger. Okay, my mouth is watering now. More pairing tips for all types of take-out here ... More »